Data & Energy Storage in Hillsboro: Community Development Code Amendments

The City of Hillsboro has planned a two-phased approach to the work of re-examining where and how data and energy storage facilities are located and regulated in Hillsboro.

This work is being initiated during a 120-day land use moratorium that Hillsboro City Council voted to enact on new applications for data center and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) development on July 27. After the initial 120-day period, City Council could extend the moratorium for an additional six months.

Data & Energy Storage Code Amendment Phases

Phase I: Fall 2026

Definitions & Use Allowances

• How do we define these uses?
• Where do we allow, prohibit, or limit these uses?

Phase II: Winter/Spring 2027

Development & Design Standards

• How are these uses designed?
• What special regulations apply?
  • This could include elements like building height, buffers, green building requirements.

The City is taking a two-phased approach to ensure its rules for data and energy storage facilities are effective and legally sound. The City needs to complete studies and gather local information before adopting these rules. This evidence will help ensure the new standards are based on facts and can withstand legal challenges.

About the Community Development Code

Hillsboro's Community Development Code (CDC) provides a legal framework for the City to manage land use, site development, transportation, and building projects. It ensures that development aligns with community goals, promotes public safety, and supports economic and social well-being.

The CDC addresses zoning classifications, permitted uses, design standards, environmental considerations, and procedures for permits and approvals, helping the community make consistent and informed decisions.

As required by state statute, Hillsboro's CDC can only be updated through a legislative process which includes a public hearing at the Hillsboro Planning Commission followed by a decision issued by Hillsboro City Council.

Project Background

• Data Centers in Hillsboro webpage
  • News & Updates, Map, Frequently Asked Questions
• June 2 City Council Work Session: Data Center Overview
  • Review the meeting video & materials
• June 9 City Council Work Session: Data Center Overview Continued & Enterprise Zone Overview
  • Review the meeting video & materials
• July 21 City Council Work Session: Phase I Code Amendment Concepts
  • Review the meeting video & materials
• August 12 Planning Commission Work Session: Phase I Code Amendment Concepts
  • Review the meeting video & materials

Find more background materials and recent actions on the Data Centers in Hillsboro webpage.